2. Take Omega-3 Fish oils. A high dose of Omega-3 Fish Oil will help decrease chronic inflammation in the brain, which can help decrease the risk of depression.

3. Open up and talk about your emotions. Many people hold onto their emotions and that can cause more of a "depression" or separation from others, exacerbating the underlying issues. Talking about these issues will release that stress and take the "weight" off your shoulders.

4. Manage your sugar intake. High sugars diets from everything from table sugars, cookies and cakes to high carbohydrate foods, processed foods, breads and pastas can cause a fluctuation in your blood sugar levels and increase your risk for depression.

5. Optimize your Sleep. Research shows that changes in circadian rhythm (sleep pattern) may be linked to depression. Try to go to sleep the same time each night, limit the amount of white light coming from TVs, Alarm clocks, night lights, etc. and if needed, try a natural Melatonin supplement.

People suffering with low levels of vitamin D are more prone to experience depression, anxiety, panic attacks and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Have your vitamin D levels tested and spend time outdoors in the sunshine, take a walk in the park or other nature setting for a natural health and mood boost.

Are you taking prescription drugs? Many medications can cause depression. If depression is an ongoing issue, discuss medication side effects with your pharmacist or physician. Better yet, seek a natural remedy or nutritional solution with your natural health professional.

Take positive action whether you feel like doing so or not. A great step toward relieving depression is to do something positive and kind for someone else. Whether it’s sharing a bowl of soup with an elderly neighbor, writing a note of appreciation, or volunteering at a local charity, broaden your community outreach and fellowship with uplifting, inspiring people.

Do you have an unresolved conflict with someone in your life? Unresolved relational issues can be a heavy burden to bear. Need to make things right? Take the first step. Ask the person you offended to forgive you.

Depression is often an indication that we are trying to handle everything by ourselves. Tough situations in life can be experienced without depression. We are not alone in this world. Pray for God’s guidance, mercy and forgiveness. It’s the most effective remedy of all. It is important for us to understand that we are not just physical beings, but spiritual as well. We must address the whole person: mind, body and soul.

Food for Thought: Those that tell jokes and laugh often may do so to disguise their depression from others.